Criminal Justice

Bachelor's in Criminal Justice

From the courtroom to corrections facilities, in today’s society, there’s a growing demand for professionals in the criminal justice field. In this flexible, accelerated bachelor degree program offered by Elizabethtown College School of Continuing and Professional Studies, you’ll explore the legal and criminal justice systems, learn about law enforcement and investigations, and delve into what issues could cause people to commit crimes. You’ll round out your experience with electives that fit your interests—from organized crime to forensics. If you’re looking to begin a new career in this field—or hoping to advance in your current role—a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Elizabethtown College will prepare you well and to model E-town’s motto “educate for service”.

Program Formats:

Credits Required: 125

Cost Per Credit: $555

Program Outcomes

Synthesize knowledge of theory and research within the criminal justice field.

Discuss the historical development of the criminal justice system.

Apply criminal law to real-life case studies.

Analyze the roles and functions within the criminal justice system.

Articulate the chronology of processes that are the responsibility of various criminal justice agencies.

Demonstrate a respect of diversity in criminal justice as it pertains to race, ethnicity, age and socioeconomic status.

Analyze the ethical decision making process inherent in the field of criminal justice.

Present a comprehensive system analysis of the primary components of the criminal justice system.

Criminal Justice Degree Requirements

Accredited by the Middle States Association for Colleges and Secondary Schools, the bachelor's degree from Elizabethtown College requires 125 credit hours of academic work. Degree candidates must take at least 30 of their last 60 credits from Elizabethtown College. Credits from Elizabethtown must include at least 15 credits in the major; nine of them must be 300-400 level criminal justice courses. Students can also consider adding a minor from any of the programs offered through SCPS such as Business Administration, Behavioral and Addictions Counseling, Human Services or Information Systems.

Projected Regional Job Growth

Where Our Graduates Work:

I definitely think a degree is helpful in making you well-rounded. It makes a huge difference when you list that on your resume; it says something about you. And your earning potential is greater.

– Timothy Frey

When I decided to go back to earn my bachelor’s degree, E-town offered me the ability to work at my pace. The program was very accommodating and the instructors were flexible and understanding of my needs working full-time as a single mother.

– Mariko Bender

Each facilitator excels your knowledge and skills. The professors teach relevant material that you can apply in your current job immediately.

– Tony Knepp

I wanted to make a difference and make an impact in my career. I built my foundation through the Elizabethtown College program. I also wanted to give my kids an example of a role model to give them the motivation to pursue their goals.

Meet YourLead Facilitator

Steven McDaniel

Steven McDaniel served as a member of the Pennsylvania State Police for over twenty (20) years rising to the rank of Major. Acting in numerous leadership roles throughout his career, Steve was the commanding officer of two different troop commands, and retired as the commanding officer of Area 1 (including State Police operational command of 11 Pennsylvania counties and the Pennsylvania Turnpike).

Under his leadership, the Pennsylvania State Police established the “Watch Center” providing 24-hour, 365-day information collection, fusion and dissemination to coordinate public safety activity state-wide.

Steve earned a bachelor of professional studies (criminal justice) at Elizabethtown College through the EXCEL Program and a master’s in business administration from Eastern University.

Steve has served as an affiliated faculty member at Elizabethtown College since 2009 and is currently the lead criminal justice facilitator for the School of Continuing and Professional Studies. He is actively involved in developing new curriculum and transformational methods of learning delivery. He enjoys facilitating courses in race and ethnic relations and multicultural communications. It is here that Steve believes understanding of self and others leads to transformational knowledge.

Steve and his wife Lori live in Harrisburg, PA. He volunteers his time advocating for victims of Child Abuse as an active member of Bikers Against Child Abuse.

Elizabethtown College does not discriminate on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, age, disability, marital status, veteran status, national or ethnic origin, ancestry, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, genetic information, possession of a general education development certificate as compared to a high school diploma, or any other legally protected status. This commitment applies but is not limited to decisions made with respect to hiring and promotion, the administration educational programs and policies, scholarship and loan programs, and athletic or other College administered programs. Discrimination or harassment of any kind is strictly forbidden.